Library Displays 2022: Hispanic Heritage Month

Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. 

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Also, Did de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period. 

Information provided by The Library of Congress, National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, National Archives, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, National Park Service, and the National Endowment for the Humanities.